ACUTE OBSERVATIONS OF A CONTRARIAN DIASPORAN: HEY MAMA

Hey Mama,

It’s been five months since you left us, and the world feels inexplicably different—like a book with missing chapters. I’ve spent countless nights sifting through memories, piecing together the narrative of my grief journey without you. I never imagined writing this letter in a public space, but here we are. This blog, once a quiet sanctuary for my thoughts about books, life, and culture, is evolving into something deeper—a heartfelt conversation with you, my eternal confidante.

I vividly remember that day, years ago, when I announced my ambition to become a writer. You didn’t dismiss my dream; you embraced it. Our weekly library trips were the canvas on which we painted our relationship. With your literary passion, you guided Moh and me through aisles of books, encouraging us to dive into stories that challenged our imaginations. Your unwavering support turned my playful scribbles into structured literary projects and fanfiction. You made me believe my words mattered.

You embodied literary passion—immersed in novels by authors like Mary Higgins Clark and Robin Cook, often juggling two books at once. Those moments by your side taught me about literature and the profound connections that stories create. You emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives, reminding me that even the most contrarian views had a place. Little did I know, those lessons would shape my voice and how I navigate the world.

Life has a way of throwing curveballs. Last year, as your illness progressed, my priorities shifted. The blog intended as my creative outlet became an afterthought as Dad, Moh, and I took on full-time caregiving. Watching you battle your illness was a lesson in vulnerability, resilience, and love. Each day brought its own challenges, and our words became a lifeline, connecting with you even in uncertainty.

When you passed away on May 2nd, 2024, I felt an irreplaceable void. In my grief, I desperately wanted to keep our conversations alive, preserving our relationship meaningfully. That’s when I decided to transform this blog into a series of letters to you. “Acute Observations of a Contrarian Diasporan” became “Hey Mama,” a tribute to our bond.

Each post serves as a letter—a space to share my thoughts on books I’ve read, places I’ve traveled, and cultural moments that spark my curiosity. I reflect on the lessons you taught about embracing differing opinions and finding value in dissent. In moments of introspection, I can hear your irony, teasing, “Why do you always have to be contrarian?” Your playful inquiry guides this new direction, reminding me to challenge norms and explore the world with curiosity.

Today, on October 12th—your birthday—I feel a renewed sense of purpose as I relaunch this blog. It’s not merely a continuation; it’s a heartfelt celebration of your life and the extraordinary woman you were. “Hey Mama” will honor your memory, weaving together our shared love for literature and the deep conversations that shaped who I am.

So here we are, embarking on this journey together, even as I navigate the silence left in your absence. Within these digital pages, I hope to create a space that resonates with others—a space to explore the power of storytelling, the beauty of dissenting voices, and the enduring love between a mother and daughter.

Join me as we honor you, Mama, and keep your spirit alive through every word and thought shared.

With all my love, 

Your Nene

Sang, The Contrarian Diasporan